Indiana State University Newsroom

Virus researcher up next in Biology Speaker Series

February 13, 2009

TERRE HAUTE- On Tuesday, Feb. 17, a researcher of the discovery and characterization of unknown viruses will speak at Indiana State University as part of the Biology Seminar Series: "From Molecules to Ecosystems."

Jennifer O'Connor, an assistant professor of applied biology and biomedical engineering at the Rose-Hulman Institute, will speak at 4 p.m. in room 12 of the Science Building concerning her research of viruses, specifically in amphibian populations. Her areas of specialization include virus replication and the functions of viral proteins, the emergence of infectious disease and biology education.

O'Connor earned her bachelor's degree in biology from Miami University and went on to get her doctorate in microbiology from the University of Tennessee. Aside from teaching, O'Connor has done research in the investigation of factors affecting virus emergence and the discovery and characterization of unknown viruses.

The series, sponsored by the ISU department of biology and St. Mary-of-the-Woods College science and math department, brings in internationally recognized research scientists to speak to students and community members. For more information, visit http://www.indstate.edu/darwin/ or call 812-237-2501.
Refreshments will be served from 3:30 to 4 p.m. with the seminar beginning at 4 p.m.